Planning permission has been granted for a new skatepark to be constructed in Rothamsted Park, Harpenden.

The "badly needed" development will replace the site's current skatepark, which is currently "at the end of its life".

An "inviting and inclusive space with good wheelchair access, features for all abilities and ages, and suitability for different users" has been promised.

Along with skateboards, BMX bikes, WCMX adapted wheelchairs, scooters and roller skates will all be catered for.

The work will cost approximately £250,000, with the town council contributing £100,000 to the project.

Herts Advertiser: The entrance to Rothamsted Park, Harpenden.The entrance to Rothamsted Park, Harpenden. (Image: Harpenden Town Council)

The remaining £150,000 will be raised via fundraising initiatives through the Playground Action Rothamsted Committee (PARC) charity.

PARC continue to fundraise, but have appealed for help from residents and businesses.

Cllr Fiona Gaskell, mayor of Harpenden, said: “News that planning permission has now been secured for the new skatepark is extremely exciting.

"This is an important redevelopment benefiting a wide-ranging demographic, particularly Harpenden’s young people and their families.

"The town council is delighted to be working in partnership with PARC and we thank them for their continued hard work and dedication.”

Herts Advertiser: The final design for Rothamsted Park's new skatepark.The final design for Rothamsted Park's new skatepark. (Image: Harpenden Town Council)

PARC was originally set up in 2018, by local parents and grandparents, and formed a partnership with the Town Council, successfully raising funds to redevelop Rothamsted Park’s playpark. 

A similar model is being followed for this project. PARC representative Rod Cooley said: “With planning permission now in place, the only barrier to building the Rothamsted Skatepark is the funding.

"PARC has been working hard to obtain funds but we still have a substantial amount to raise to reach our target.

"To help us do this, residents can donate £100 and have their name or a message inscribed on a paver that will be laid on the path from the Leisure Centre to the Skatepark.

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"Just 200 pavers are available!

"Furthermore, PARC is appealing to local businesses to sponsor the skatepark with donations of any amount gratefully received.

"A £2,500 donation will secure a place on the sponsor board to be located by the skatepark illustrating business' support of this great community project.

"Details about these and any donation can be found on our webpage www.parc.charity/donate"